Advance Readers' Praise for 'EMPOWER YOUR ViBE'
- Susan Schwartz
Here's what some Advance Readers have to say about the book:
“I highly recommend the book, EMPOWER YOUR ViBE. I first met the authors, Marnie and Rena Schwartz, in the year 2000 when I wrote an article about them for the National Post called, Spot the Twins. They inspired me then and they continue to do that today! I am awed at their inclusive non-competitive ViBE dance school, their new researched invention, the CARTWHIRLER™ cartwheel mat, and their multiple writing projects, all going on at the same time! This book captures it all: their personal dramas and life and business challenges, their optimism and successes, and their concrete strategies and goals to help others! This is a must-read!!” —Rebecca Eckler, Author of multiple books as well as Founder of www.rebooks.ca and RE:books Publishing House
"The best way to learn the value of personal branding is to see it in action — and in this case times two! That Marnie and Rena understand what it takes to identify 'your vibe' is great. The fact that they are doing it together is fascinating. In a world of faux-influencer brands big on sizzle but light on steak, it's wonderful to meet and learn from two such dynamic and authentic people. But watch out — their megawatt energy is liable to excite you to the point that you get off your butt and start doing all of this stuff for yourself — which is reason enough to get the book right there." —DP Knudten, Author of NONFICTION BRAND, Discover, craft and nbsp;communicate the ‘completely true/completely you’ brand you already are, and the engaging host of the NONFICTION BRAND podcast.
“This book is fabulous! I’m impressed with all the useful information it contains. It tells about an amazing family that turned their talents into a movement that inspires so many people. Whether you’re a dancer or an entrepreneur, or someone who just likes well-written stories, this book is for you. You will enjoy reading about the journey of the authors as they share their struggles and successes. Their insights are a testament to the power of passion and persistence to motivate and change others for the better. It is one of the best books I’ve read, and I highly recommend it!” —Richard Blazevich, Creator of numerous YouTube videos about writing and publishing and Author of multiple books including, THAT’S A BULLSEYE: A Marketing Story About Finding the Right Products, Consumers, and Campaign to Grow a Business
“This book is a beautifully written snapshot of what the co-authors, Marnie and Rena Schwartz, have envisioned from an early age to now. Their story has taken them through many exciting places where they have been able to connect with a diverse array of influencers and talents. I’m thrilled to have been part of their journey and look forward to the next adventure they choose to embark on.” —Dr. Tamara Mose, Former Choreographer for the Toronto Raptors' Dance Pak, Professor of Sociology, Brooklyn College, University of New York, New York
“I met Marnie and Rena twenty years ago at a dance company in New York City where we practiced and performed together in Times Square. I had such a wonderful time working with them. Soon after I started teaching at the Broadway Dance Center, and they both surprised me by attending my classes. I was so honored! They brought such an amazing energy to the class. Everyone (including me) was fascinated by their great skills and synchronized style. We’ve stayed connected for 20+ years strong. I’ve been impressed each time I hear or see their activities and achievements. I couldn’t wait to dive into their life-changing book, EMPOWER YOUR VIBE. I learned even more about their lives and the beliefs that make them keep going. It is such a privilege for me to write this! Congratulations to you, Marnie and Rena! Can’t wait to vibe with you again!” —Chio Yamada, Dance Instructor, Broadway Dance Center, New York City, New York
“There is so much to learn from Marnie and Rena. Their passion for following their dreams and making a difference is a story that needs to be shared.” —Mordechai Rothman, Executive Director, Chai Lifeline Canada
“This book is incredible! It should be shared in different languages all over the world!” —Edie Weisbrod, Client Service Representative, Circle of Care, Toronto, Ontario
“We are so excited that Marnie and Rena decided to conduct a deep dive into the secret sauce of their successful dance school. We learned first-hand about their special talents—not only in dance and fitness but in teaching others in a fun and accepting space that offers a creative and exciting learning experience for all participants. Kudos to them for always jumping at opportunities to make an impact — from their uplifting guest speaking sessions with individuals with special abilities (part of Reena’s virtual career series and employment program) to hosting online events with the Reena Foundation, including during the pandemic! Their talents for creating an energetic and inclusive learning environment for such a diverse group deserve praise. We applaud them for their resilience and their lifelong learner drive! We know that this book will motivate us all to create a plan and reach our potential. We at Reena are Marnie and Rena’s biggest fans! We vouch for this book as an important read!” —Joanna Samuels, Employment Supervisor, Reena, Thornhill, Ontario
“This book is a gift! The authors, Marnie and Rena Schwartz, offer readers a window into their hearts and souls as they share the road they traveled in pursuit of their dreams. It is a book for all to read as we ponder the path in front of us. Be ready to be motivated by their stories and be touched by their compassion for all human beings. Be prepared to gain practical personal and professional strategies for life and business. They do all this as successful business owners during a global pandemic. An engaging and truly awe-inspiring read!” —Anne Marie Chudleigh, Assistant Professor, Academic Coordinator, Master of Teaching Program, Curriculum, Teaching and Learning Department, Ontario Institute of Studies in Education, University of Toronto, Ontario
“If you are a business owner or an employee who wants to make a difference in your organization or community, I suggest you read, EMPOWER YOUR ViBE. The co-authors, Marnie and Rena, integrated a family biography with a business story and lessons learned that can be helpful in meeting adversity head-on. They outline how, as an individual or business owner, you can face life and work challenges and see all the positives. Their approach has created a successful enterprise and brand that has flourished for over twenty years, even during a pandemic. Quite inspirational! I believe that the key to their success is their “servant leadership” philosophy where they work closely with their staff, and as a team, they serve their clients and community. Their long-term commitment to developing a supply of leaders and confident citizens has paid dividends. They are truly creating the next generation of leaders! Highly recommend!” —Amal Henein, Human Resources Professional, Consultant, and Co-author of Made in Canada Leadership: Wisdom from the Nation’s Best and Brightest on Leadership Practice and Development
“EMPOWER YOUR ViBE is a remarkable self-empowerment book highlighting the impact that Marnie and Rena Schwartz have on so many with their optimism and resilience. These outstanding leaders take us on an exciting journey in life and business, exemplifying what it takes to motivate others to believe in themselves and achieve their goals. They instill in readers the importance of branding and the values of hard work and excellence. Their commitment to equity and inclusion at their accessible dance studio creates a safe and welcoming environment. They model what educational settings should deliver—a place where everyone belongs and where individuals are valued for their unique gifts and contributions. And leave it to Marnie and Rena to add thought-provoking ‘Questions to ask yourself’ at the end of each chapter, and then reproduce these questions into an accompanying, downloadable, free gift of a JOURNAL. I believe their work can be useful as an organizational, leadership, goal setting, and Life Skills tool as teens and adults look to their next steps and transitions in life. Their practical ideas offer sage advice for students and parents, and for educators and aspiring leaders. With a focus on leadership and self-confidence, this valuable resource is a must-read!” —Shawna Campbell, Executive Superintendent of Education, Toronto Catholic District School Board, Ontario
“I was captivated by this book. It is a collection of reminiscences and good advice. ViBE is the organizational brainchild of Marnie and Rena Schwartz, who build inclusivity and performance-based learning through dance and movement. The book describes the journey of twin sisters who discover their passion and purpose by establishing a true community that is non-competitive and focuses on building the confidence and agency of its dancers and staff. They also describe their invention, the CARTWHIRLER™, which supports children to effectively master the art of cartwheeling. I bought one for my grandchildren, and it has been a great self-esteem booster, and yes, they now cartwheel with confidence. The book is interspersed with anecdotes and photographs, adding context and meaning. Not only does it offer optimistic messages about attitudes towards life and its challenges, but it is also a self-empowerment and business book about continuous learning. They go into detail about building relationships, developing leadership, and growing your personal and professional brand. Marnie and Rena have thoughtfully included a bonus gift of a JOURNAL for readers to download and record their reflections and goals as they read and consider the stories and messages in the book. I thoroughly recommend it to begin your informed and transformative journey.” —Dr. Beverley Freedman, Former Superintendent of Programs for the Durham District School Board, Ontario, Co-author of Collaborative School Reviews, How to Shape Schools From the Inside, Educational Services Consulting (www.beverleyfreedman.com)
“This book about empathy and resilience stays with you. It is about leadership and mentoring. Marnie and Rena, role models and caring leaders, established their careers and brand by incorporating their passion for dance with the inclusion of all dancers without competition or comparison but based on growth of personal potential. They share the turmoil and tragedy of life’s suffering and loss as part of their achieving and moving forward. The global pandemic added a layer of challenge and an opportunity for them to re-invent their dance school as well as pursue creative initiatives. The strategies in this book are useful to keep in mind in life and business, especially for entrepreneurs starting or running a business. It was an honor to read their book with such honest disclosures and gratitude about their family and achievements. What a remarkable read that will indeed help others! It will speak to all who value personal development.” —Linda Rung, Retired Principal, Toronto District School Board, Ontario